October birthstone

Opal: the October birthstone

Opal symbolizes hope, creativity, innocence and inspiration. Its color, history, care, value and where it comes from.

Birth month: October
Hardness: 5.5–6.5 Mohs
Anniversary: 14th
Sources: Australia (about 95% of the world's supply), Ethiopia, Mexico (fire opal) and Brazil

Color

White, black, boulder and fire opal. The rainbow "play-of-color" is caused by tiny silica spheres that split light.

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History & lore

The Romans thought opal held the powers of every colored gem. A 19th-century Walter Scott novel gave opals an undeserved reputation for bad luck, until Queen Victoria wore them proudly. Pink tourmaline, which comes in every color, is October's second birthstone.

Care

Soft, and it can crack if it dries out or heats up suddenly. Protective settings are best. Never use ultrasonic cleaners.

Value

Ethiopian white opal is affordable. Australian black opal with bright red flashes is among the most valuable gems.

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Questions, answered

What month is opal the birthstone for?

Opal is the October birthstone.

What does opal symbolize?

Opal symbolizes hope, creativity, innocence and inspiration.

How hard is opal?

Opal is 5.5–6.5 on the Mohs scale. Soft, and it can crack if it dries out or heats up suddenly. Protective settings are best. Never use ultrasonic cleaners.

Where is opal found?

Australia (about 95% of the world's supply), Ethiopia, Mexico (fire opal) and Brazil.